Each cluster will have a group leader and business development team which will help define priorities and chart the best strategy forward, Frey said. He did not elaborate on who will serve or lead these teams, how many team members each cluster will have, or whether they will be state employees, private-sector hires or volunteers.

Neither Frey nor Huntsman specified precisely how the cluster initiative will be funded — whether it will require separate or additional funding, or remobilize existing resources.

"We are still defining the process to move each area to become the best in class," Frey said.

But, he said, "this is a long-term process."

The state will hold another meeting on economic clusters, this one open to economic developers and the public, on July 15 at the Salt Lake Hilton, said economic development spokeswoman Tracie Cayford. The department is welcoming feedback. More information is available at dced.utah.gov/business/clusters.html.

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